I’ve spent considerable time with both the VOOPOO VMATE i2 and the newer VMATE i3, and while they share the same DNA, there are some meaningful differences worth discussing. If you’re trying to decide between these two pod systems, here’s what you need to know from actual use.
Size and Portability
The most noticeable difference is how these devices feel in your hand and pocket. The VMATE i3 is genuinely lighter and smaller – it weighs 49.8g compared to the i2’s 55.5g, and it’s about 10mm shorter (103mm vs 113.7mm).
In daily use, the i3 practically disappears in your pocket. I’ve actually had moments where I had to check if it was still there. The i2, while still very portable, has a bit more presence. Both are aluminum alloy with solid build quality, but the i3’s reduced footprint makes it easier to carry around all day.
Charging Speed
Here’s where the i3 makes a significant jump. Both devices pack the same 1500mAh battery, which is excellent for all-day vaping. But the VOOPOO VMATE i2 charges at 5V/1A, taking about 90 minutes for a full charge. The i3 upgrades to 5V/2A fast charging, cutting that time down to roughly 40 minutes.
This might not sound like a huge deal, but in practice, it changes how you use the device. With the i2, you need to plan your charging around longer breaks. With the i3, a quick lunch break or coffee stop gets you back to full power. For someone constantly on the move, this is a real quality-of-life improvement.
Pod Performance
Both devices use the same VMATE pod system, and they’re cross-compatible. The 3ml top-fill pods with 0.7Ω coils work identically in either device. I’ve tested the same pods in both, and the flavor, vapor production, and coil longevity are essentially the same.
The leak-proof technology works excellently on both. I’ve left each device on its side overnight, tossed them in bags, and carried them in pockets – no leaks from either one. The pods genuinely last a long time too; I’ve pushed 20ml+ through single pods without any burnt taste or flavor degradation.
Airflow adjustment is equally smooth on both devices, letting you dial in anything from a tight cigarette-like MTL draw to a more open restricted lung hit.
Design and LED Indicator
The VOOPOO VMATE i2 features a rubberized finish in certain areas and a multi-segment RGB bar that shows battery status. It’s functional but can be a bit tricky to read at a glance – the LED strip changes length based on battery level, which isn’t the most intuitive.
The i3 goes with a fully metallic finish and simplifies the indicator to a neon strip that glows green (≥70% battery), blue (30-70%), or red (≤30%). This is much easier to read quickly. The i3 also comes in some fresh new color options, including that eye-catching Neon variant.
Real-World Usage
After using both devices extensively, here’s what stands out:
The i2 is a solid, no-frills pod system that gets the job done reliably. Battery life is excellent, the pods are great, and it’s very affordable. The main drawback is the longer charge time, which can be annoying if you forget to plug it in overnight.
The i3 takes the i2’s foundation and refines it. Same great battery capacity, same excellent pods, but in a more compact body with significantly faster charging. It’s the device I find myself reaching for more often simply because it’s so convenient.
Which Should You Buy?
If you can find the VMATE i2 on sale at a significant discount, it’s still a great device. The performance is excellent, and the longer charge time is manageable if that’s not a priority for you.
However, if you’re buying new at similar prices, the VMATE i3 is the better choice. The faster charging alone justifies it, and the smaller size is a bonus. Both devices are beginner-friendly, reliable, and deliver solid flavor.
The i3 is essentially the i2 evolved – same strengths, fewer compromises. VOOPOO took an already good device and made it better in the ways that actually matter for daily use.
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